Integrated live and simulation environment system for an aircraft

ABSTRACT

A method and apparatus comprising an aircraft, a network interface, a display system, a sensor system, and a computer system. The network interface, the display system, the sensor system, and the computer system are associated with the aircraft. The network interface is configured to exchange data using a wireless communications link. The computer system is configured to run a number of processes to receive simulation data received through the network interface over the wireless communications link. The computer system is configured to generate simulation sensor data using the simulation data. The computer system is configured to receive live sensor data from the sensor system associated with the aircraft. The computer system is also configured to present the simulation sensor data with the live sensor data on the display system.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1. Field

The present disclosure relates generally to aircraft and, in particular,to a method and apparatus for performing training exercises in anaircraft. Still more particularly, the present disclosure relates to amethod and apparatus for performing training exercises in an aircraft inwhich a live environment and a simulation environment are present.

2. Background

Training exercises are often performed for military aircraft. Thesetraining exercises are used to teach pilots how to operate the aircraft.Additionally, the exercises are also used to train the pilots ondifferent strategies and tactics with respect to operating the aircraft.For example, pilots may train in an aircraft to improve skills andreactions to adversarial events. These events may include, for example,without limitation, encountering enemy aircraft, reacting to a presenceof surface-to-air missile sites, engaging time sensitive targets, andother suitable events.

A large amount of training may be performed using training devices onthe ground. These training devices often take the form of flightsimulators. A flight simulator is a system that copies or simulates theexperience of flying an aircraft. A flight simulator is meant to makethe experience as real as possible. Flight simulators may range fromcontrols and a display in a room to a full-size replica of a cockpitmounted on actuators that are configured to move the cockpit in responseto actions taken by a pilot. These types of simulators provide acapability to teach pilots and/or other crew members to operate variousaircraft systems and to react to different events.

Additional training is performed through training exercises using liveaircraft. These types of training exercises expose pilots to the actualconditions encountered when flying an aircraft. Various conditionscannot be accurately simulated using a flight simulator. For example,the actual movement or forces encountered in flying an aircraft may notbe adequately provided through a flight simulator.

With military aircraft, this type of training is typically performed onvarious areas or ranges. This type of training may involve usingmultiple live aircraft to perform training on encountering enemyaircraft. Further, various ground platforms also may be used. Theseground platforms may include, for example, without limitation, tanks,surface-to-air missile systems, and other suitable ground units. Thesetypes of training exercises provide a pilot with the additionalexperience needed to operate an aircraft in different conditions.

Live training exercises are difficult and/or expensive to set up andoperate. For example, to perform a training exercise in the air,airspace is restricted to other aircraft to avoid unintended incursionsinto the airspace in which the training occurs. Additionally, fuel,maintenance, and other expenses are required to prepare the aircraft forthe exercises, operate the aircraft during the exercises, and performmaintenance after the exercises have concluded.

Further, the amount of airspace may be confining and may restrict thetype and amount of movement that aircraft can make during a trainingexercise. Times and locations where airspace can be restricted may limitthe amount of time when training exercises can be performed.

Therefore, it would be advantageous to have a method and apparatus thattakes into account one or more of the issues discussed above, as well aspossibly other issues.

SUMMARY

In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises an aircraft, anetwork interface, a display system, a sensor system, and a computersystem. The network interface, the display system, the sensor system,and the computer system are associated with the aircraft. The networkinterface is configured to exchange data using a wireless communicationslink. The computer system is configured to run a number of processes toreceive simulation data through the network interface over the wirelesscommunications link. The computer system is configured to generatesimulation sensor data using the simulation data. The computer system isconfigured to receive live sensor data from the sensor system associatedwith the aircraft. The computer system is also configured to present thesimulation sensor data with the live sensor data on the display system.

In another illustrative embodiment, an apparatus comprises trainingsoftware and a computer system. The computer system is configured to runthe training software to receive simulation data. The computer system isconfigured to run the training software to create simulation sensor datafrom the simulation data using a model of a sensor in a sensor systemassociated with an aircraft. The computer system is configured to runthe training software to receive live sensor data from the sensor systemassociated with the aircraft, and present the simulation sensor data andthe live sensor data on a display system.

In yet another illustrative embodiment, a method is present for trainingin an aircraft. Simulation data is received from a network interface inan aircraft during a training session. The network interface uses awireless communications link to receive the simulation data. Live sensordata is received from a sensor system in the aircraft. Simulation sensordata is generated using the simulation data. The simulation sensor datais presented with the live sensor data on a display system in theaircraft.

The features, functions, and advantages can be achieved independently invarious embodiments of the present disclosure or may be combined in yetother embodiments in which further details can be seen with reference tothe following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the illustrativeembodiments are set forth in the appended claims. The illustrativeembodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, furtherobjectives, and advantages thereof, will best be understood by referenceto the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment ofthe present disclosure when read in conjunction with the accompanyingdrawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a block diagram of a training environmentin accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a data processing system in accordance withan illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a training environment in accordance withan illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 4 is an illustration of training software in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 5 is an illustration of data flow in a training environment inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 6 is an illustration of data flow in a training environment inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 7 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for performing atraining session in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for training in anaircraft in accordance with an illustrative embodiment;

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for generatingsimulation sensor data received in an aircraft in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for generatinginformation about objects detected by sensors in accordance with anillustrative embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for presentingobject information in accordance with an illustrative embodiment; and

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process for sending dataduring a training session in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The different illustrative embodiments recognize and take into account anumber of considerations. For example, the different illustrativeembodiments recognize and take into account that one manner in whichtraining may be performed to reduce the expense and cost involvesattaching pods or associating systems with the aircraft that simulatelive platforms. These pods may include the hardware and software tosimulate the platforms that the pilot may target or interact with.

This type of training simulates weapons that allow aircraft to targetlive platforms with onboard sensors. These pods also allow weapons to beshot through simulations embedded in the pods. The differentillustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that thiscurrent type of simulation uses actual hardware or hardware emulations.A hardware emulation is hardware that takes a different form or typefrom the hardware actually used. A hardware emulation is configured toprovide the same response or output as the actual hardware that is beingemulated.

Although these types of systems may be useful, the differentillustrative embodiments recognize and take into account that thehardware used for this type of simulation may have an undesired level ofexpense and maintenance.

Thus, the different illustrative embodiments provide a method andapparatus for integrating both live and simulation environments on anaircraft. The different illustrative embodiments provide a pilot andother crew members the capability to train in an actual trainingenvironment. This training environment includes both live and simulationobjects. Data for the simulation objects is transmitted from othervehicles in the air or on the ground. In one illustrative embodiment, anapparatus comprises an aircraft, a network interface, a display system,a sensor system, and a computer system.

The network interface is configured to exchange data with a number ofremote locations using a wireless communications link. The computersystem is configured to run a number of processes to receive simulationdata received through the network interface over the wirelesscommunications link. The computer system is also configured to run anumber of processes to receive live data from the sensor system. Thecomputer system is configured to run a number of processes to presentthe simulation data with the live data on the display system in theaircraft.

In the different illustrative examples, the simulation data receivedfrom the network interface is processed to generate simulation sensordata. This simulation sensor data has the same format as sensor datagenerated by the sensor system associated with the aircraft. Thesimulation sensor data is processed by a number of processes running onthe computer system to generate the sensor data. In these examples, theprocesses may take the form of a number of models for the differentsensors in the sensor system. Some or all of the sensors may be modeledin these examples.

The sensor data generated by the models may be referred to as simulationsensor data. The sensor data generated by the sensor system may bereferred to as live sensor data. The live sensor data and the simulationsensor data are presented together during the training session.

With reference now to FIG. 1, an illustration of a block diagram of atraining environment is depicted in accordance with an illustrativeembodiment. In this illustrative example, training environment 100includes vehicle 102. Vehicle 102 takes the form of aircraft 104 inthese depicted examples. Training session 106 may be performed usingaircraft 104, in which simulation environment 108 and live environment110 are both present in training environment 100.

In this illustrative example, network interface 112, display system 114,sensor system 116, and computer system 118 are associated with aircraft104. A first component may be considered to be associated with a secondcomponent by being secured to the second component, bonded to the secondcomponent, fastened to the second component, and/or connected to thesecond component in some other suitable manner. The first component alsomay be connected to the second component by using a third component. Thefirst component also may be considered to be associated with the secondcomponent by being formed as part of and/or an extension of the secondcomponent.

Computer system 118 comprises number of computers 119 in thisillustrative example. Number of computers 119 may be in communicationwith each other using wired or wireless communications links in theseillustrative examples. Training software 120 runs on number of computers119 in these illustrative examples. Sensor system 116 generates livesensor data 121. Simulation data 122 is received by network interface112 over wireless communications link 124.

In these illustrative examples, simulation data 122 may be for number ofsimulation objects 125. In these illustrative examples, a simulationobject is an object created by a computer program or an objectrepresented by a training device. In other words, a simulation object isnot a physical object in these examples.

In these illustrative examples, live sensor data 121 is data generatedby sensor system 116 associated with aircraft 104 detecting number oflive objects 126 in training environment 100. A live object, as used inthese illustrative examples, is a physical or real object. In otherwords, a live object can be seen, touched, and/or handled. For example,when the live object is an aircraft, the live object is the actualaircraft and not a computer representation of the aircraft or a trainingdevice for the aircraft. As used herein, a number of, where referring toitems, means one or more items. For example, number of live objects 126is one or more live objects. In these illustrative examples, number oflive objects 126 is detected by number of sensors 128 within sensorsystem 116.

In these illustrative examples, computer system 118 is configured to runtraining software 120 during training session 106 using aircraft 104 inthese examples. Computer system 118 is configured to run trainingsoftware 120 in a manner that presents live sensor data 121 andsimulation data 122 together on display system 114. In theseillustrative examples, training software 120 generates simulation sensordata 123 using simulation data 122 in presenting simulation sensor data123. As a result, simulation sensor data 123 and live sensor data 121may be processed to generate information about objects that are live andsimulated. In other words, live sensor data 121 may be used to generateinformation about live objects. Simulation sensor data 123 may be usedto generate information about objects that are only simulated and notphysically present.

In these illustrative examples, simulation data 122 is data generated bya program running on a computer system or by a training device. Forexample, training environment 100 also may include at least one ofnumber of simulation programs 130, number of training devices 132, andother suitable systems configured to generate simulation data 122.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of”, when used with a list ofitems, means that different combinations of one or more of the listeditems may be used and only one of each item in the list may be needed.For example, “at least one of item A, item B, and item C” may include,for example, without limitation, item A or item A and item B. Thisexample also may include item A, item B, and item C, or item B and itemC.

In these examples, number of simulation programs 130 generatessimulation data 122 in the form of constructive data 134. Constructivedata 134 is data generated by a software program to simulate an object.The object may be, for example, without limitation, an aircraft, aground vehicle, a missile site, a missile, or some other suitableobject.

Number of training devices 132 generates virtual data 136 in simulationdata 122. Virtual data 136 is any data generated through the use ofnumber of training devices 132. Number of training devices 132 is anydevice that may be operated by a human operator. In these illustrativeexamples, number of training devices 132 may take the form of number offlight simulators 138. In this example, number of flight simulators 138may be used to generate number of simulation objects 125. Number ofsimulation objects 125 may be fighter aircraft, transport aircraft, orother suitable types of aircraft in these examples.

In these illustrative examples, computer system 140 comprises number ofcomputers 142. Number of simulation programs 130 may run on one or moreof number of computers 142. In these illustrative examples, number oftraining devices 132 is in communication with computer system 140.Number of training devices 132 sends virtual data 136 to computer system140. Computer system 140 takes constructive data 134 and virtual data136 and sends this data as simulation data 122 to computer system 118 inaircraft 104. Simulation data 122 may include information aboutsimulation objects. For example, simulation data 122 may includeinformation identifying a location of a simulation object, a heading ofa simulation object, an identification of a simulation object, and othersuitable information.

In these illustrative examples, computer system 118 also may generateownship data 144. Ownship data 144 is data describing aircraft 104.Ownship data 144 is sent to computer system 140 over wirelesscommunications link 124 through network interface 112. Ownship data 144may include, for example, at least one of a position of aircraft 104, aspeed of aircraft 104, and other suitable data. Ownship data 144 alsomay include, for example, data indicating that number of weapons 150have been fired on aircraft 104. The firing of number of weapons 150 issimulated and not actual firings of number of weapons 150. Simulationdata 148 includes information about the firing of number of weapons 150.

Computer system 140 receives ownship data 144. Ownship data 144 is usedby number of simulation programs 130 and number of training devices 132to perform training session 106. In these illustrative examples, ownshipdata 144 is used to represent aircraft 104 as an object in a simulation.Ownship data 144 allows other aircraft, vehicles, and/or objects tointeract with aircraft 104 in the simulation. For example, ownship data144 may be used by number of simulation programs 130 and number oftraining devices 132 to identify a location of aircraft 104. Thisinformation may be used to determine how number of simulation objects125 in the simulation interacts with aircraft 104. In other words,ownship data 144 may be used to generate a simulation object foraircraft 104 that can be used within number of simulation programs 130and/or by number of training devices 132.

In these illustrative examples, training session 106 may be performedwhile aircraft 104 is in flight 152 and/or on ground 154. In someillustrative embodiments, all of training session 106 for a particularexercise may be performed on ground 154. In some illustrativeembodiments, some events may occur while aircraft 104 is on ground 154prior to taking off in flight 152.

The illustration of training environment 100 in FIG. 1 is not meant toimply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in whichdifferent illustrative embodiments may be implemented. Other componentsin addition to and/or in place of the ones illustrated may be used. Somecomponents may be unnecessary in some illustrative embodiments. Also,the blocks are presented to illustrate some functional components. Oneor more of these blocks may be combined and/or divided into differentblocks when implemented in different illustrative embodiments.

For example, in some illustrative embodiments, additional aircraft, inaddition to aircraft 104, may be present in training environment 100 forperforming training session 106. In yet other illustrative embodiments,number of training devices 132 may be unnecessary with only number ofsimulation programs 130 being used.

In these illustrative examples, simulation sensor data 123 may begenerated in a location other than computer system 118 in aircraft 104.For example, a portion of training software 120 may run on a computer onthe ground and generate the simulation sensor data. Simulation sensordata 123 may be transmitted over wireless communications link 124 tonetwork interface 112 in place of or in addition to simulation data 122.

Turning now to FIG. 2, an illustration of a data processing system isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. Data processingsystem 200 is an example of a data processing system that may be used toimplement computers, such as number of computers 119 in computer system118 and number of computers 142 in computer system 140 in FIG. 1. Inthis illustrative example, data processing system 200 includescommunications fabric 202, which provides communications betweenprocessor unit 204, memory 206, persistent storage 208, communicationsunit 210, input/output (I/O) unit 212, and display 214.

Processor unit 204 serves to execute instructions for software that maybe loaded into memory 206. Processor unit 204 may be a set of one ormore processors or may be a multi-processor core, depending on theparticular implementation. Further, processor unit 204 may beimplemented using one or more heterogeneous processor systems, in whicha main processor is present with secondary processors on a single chip.As another illustrative example, processor unit 204 may be a symmetricmulti-processor system containing multiple processors of the same type.

Memory 206 and persistent storage 208 are examples of storage devices216. A storage device is any piece of hardware that is capable ofstoring information, such as, for example, without limitation, data,program code in functional form, and/or other suitable informationeither on a temporary basis and/or a permanent basis. Memory 206, inthese examples, may be, for example, a random access memory or any othersuitable volatile or non-volatile storage device.

Persistent storage 208 may take various forms, depending on theparticular implementation. For example, persistent storage 208 maycontain one or more components or devices. For example, persistentstorage 208 may be a hard drive, a flash memory, a rewritable opticaldisk, a rewritable magnetic tape, or some combination of the above. Themedia used by persistent storage 208 may be removable. For example, aremovable hard drive may be used for persistent storage 208.

Communications unit 210, in these examples, provides for communicationwith other data processing systems or devices. In these examples,communications unit 210 is a network interface card. Communications unit210 may provide communications through the use of either or bothphysical and wireless communications links.

Input/output unit 212 allows for the input and output of data with otherdevices that may be connected to data processing system 200. Forexample, input/output unit 212 may provide a connection for user inputthrough a keyboard, a mouse, and/or some other suitable input device.Further, input/output unit 212 may send output to a printer. Display 214provides a mechanism to display information to a user.

Instructions for the operating system, applications, and/or programs maybe located in storage devices 216, which are in communication withprocessor unit 204 through communications fabric 202. In theseillustrative examples, the instructions are in a functional form onpersistent storage 208. These instructions may be loaded into memory 206for execution by processor unit 204. The processes of the differentembodiments may be performed by processor unit 204 using computerimplemented instructions, which may be located in a memory, such asmemory 206.

These instructions are referred to as program code, computer usableprogram code, or computer readable program code that may be read andexecuted by a processor in processor unit 204. The program code, in thedifferent embodiments, may be embodied on different physical or computerreadable storage media, such as memory 206 or persistent storage 208.

Program code 218 is located in a functional form on computer readablemedia 220 that is selectively removable and may be loaded onto ortransferred to data processing system 200 for execution by processorunit 204. Program code 218 and computer readable media 220 form computerprogram product 222. In one example, computer readable media 220 may becomputer readable storage media 224 or computer readable signal media226.

Computer readable storage media 224 may include, for example, an opticalor magnetic disk that is inserted or placed into a drive or other devicethat is part of persistent storage 208 for transfer onto a storagedevice, such as a hard drive, that is part of persistent storage 208.Computer readable storage media 224 also may take the form of apersistent storage, such as a hard drive, a thumb drive, or a flashmemory that is connected to data processing system 200. In someinstances, computer readable storage media 224 may not be removable fromdata processing system 200.

Alternatively, program code 218 may be transferred to data processingsystem 200 using computer readable signal media 226. Computer readablesignal media 226 may be, for example, a propagated data signalcontaining program code 218. For example, computer readable signal media226 may be an electromagnetic signal, an optical signal, and/or anyother suitable type of signal. These signals may be transmitted overcommunications links, such as wireless communications links, an opticalfiber cable, a coaxial cable, a wire, and/or any other suitable type ofcommunications link. In other words, the communications link and/or theconnection may be physical or wireless in the illustrative examples.

In some illustrative embodiments, program code 218 may be downloadedover a network to persistent storage 208 from another device or dataprocessing system through computer readable signal media 226 for usewithin data processing system 200. For instance, program code stored incomputer readable storage media in a server data processing system maybe downloaded over a network from the server to data processing system200. The data processing system providing program code 218 may be aserver computer, a client computer, or some other device capable ofstoring and transmitting program code 218.

The different components illustrated for data processing system 200 arenot meant to provide architectural limitations to the manner in whichdifferent embodiments may be implemented. The different illustrativeembodiments may be implemented in a data processing system includingcomponents in addition to or in place of those illustrated for dataprocessing system 200.

Other components shown in FIG. 2 can be varied from the illustrativeexamples shown. The different embodiments may be implemented using anyhardware device or system capable of executing program code. As oneexample, data processing system 200 may include organic componentsintegrated with inorganic components and/or may be comprised entirely oforganic components excluding a human being. For example, a storagedevice may be comprised of an organic semiconductor.

As one example, in some illustrative embodiments, display 214 may not beneeded. In this type of implementation, data processing system 200 maybe implemented as a server computer or line replaceable unit. A displaymay be unnecessary in this type of implementation. As another example, astorage device in data processing system 200 is any hardware apparatusthat may store data. Memory 206, persistent storage 208, and computerreadable media 220 are examples of storage devices in a tangible form.

In another example, a bus system may be used to implement communicationsfabric 202 and may be comprised of one or more buses, such as a systembus or an input/output bus. Of course, the bus system may be implementedusing any suitable type of architecture that provides for a transfer ofdata between different components or devices attached to the bus system.Additionally, a communications unit may include one or more devices usedto transmit and receive data, such as a modem or a network adapter.Further, a memory may be, for example, memory 206 or a cache such asfound in an interface and memory controller hub that may be present incommunications fabric 202.

With reference now to FIG. 3, an illustration of a training environmentis depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisillustrative example, training environment 300 is an example of oneimplementation for training environment 100 in FIG. 1.

As depicted, training environment 300 includes network 302, network 304,aircraft 306, and network server computer 308. Network 302 includesgateway 310, constructive server computer 312, weapons server computer314, viewer server computer 318, flight simulator 320, and globalpositioning system receiver 322. In these illustrative examples, networkserver computer 308 exchanges information with aircraft 306. Thisexchange of information is performed using wireless communications link324.

Gateway 310 provides a connection between network server computer 308and other components in network 302. In other words, all informationexchanged between network 302 and network server computer 308 flowsthrough gateway 310.

Constructive server computer 312 runs simulations of different objects.These different objects are simulation objects in these examples. Forexample, constructive server computer 312 may run simulations of otheraircraft for the training involving aircraft 306. As another example,constructive server computer 312 may run simulations to generatesimulation objects, such as ground vehicles, ground stations, and othersuitable objects.

Weapons server computer 314 runs processes to simulate the firing ofweapons by aircraft 306. The firing of weapons by aircraft 306, in theseexamples, is simulation objects for the actual weapons. Weapons servercomputer 314 processes any indications of weapons fired by aircraft 306to determine the direction and location of impact for the weapons.

Weapons server computer 314 simulates the weapon in flight and weapondetonation. Weapons server computer 314 publishes information aboutweapon type, position, velocity, acceleration, and state on network 302.Additionally, weapons server computer 314 also may determine whether aparticular object has been damaged or destroyed.

Viewer server computer 318 provides a capability to view the trainingthat occurs. For example, viewer server computer 318 may display a mapidentifying the location of different objects including live andsimulation objects. Further, viewer server computer 318 also may displayresults from weapons fire or other events. Viewer server computer 318may be used during the training session to view events as they occur.Additionally, viewer server computer 318 may be used to provide adebriefing and analysis of the training session after the trainingsession has completed.

In these illustrative examples, global positioning system receiver 322is used within training environment 300 to create a common time source.Global positioning system receiver 322 may generate information abouttime. This common time source may be used by other computers andprocesses to synchronize the performance of different operations. Globalpositioning system receiver 322 is used to generate a common timestampthat is the same for the different components in training environment300.

Flight simulator 320 is a flight simulator that may be used to generatevirtual data. The simulations performed using constructive servercomputer 312 and flight simulator 320 is sent through gateway 310 tonetwork server computer 308. The virtual data and the constructive dataform simulation data for use by aircraft 306.

Network server computer 308 sends the virtual data and the constructivedata to aircraft 306. Further, any data generated by aircraft 306 isreturned through network server computer 308 over wirelesscommunications link 324. This information is then sent to network 302for use by constructive server computer 312, weapons server computer314, and flight simulator 320.

In these illustrative examples, voice communications, such as thosegenerated by operators of flight simulator 320 or generated byconstructive server computer 312, are sent to network 304. In turn,network 304 sends these communications over radio frequencycommunications link 326 to aircraft 306 using radio frequency (RF)transmitter 328.

The illustration of training environment 300 in FIG. 3 is not meant toimply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in whichdifferent illustrative embodiments may be implemented. This particularillustration is an example of one implementation of the manner in whichtraining environment 100 in FIG. 1 may be implemented. In otherillustrative embodiments, different components may be used in additionto or in place of the ones illustrated in these examples.

For example, the functions provided by the different server computersmay be integrated into fewer numbers of computers or additionalcomputers. In one example, the functions and processes for all of thedifferent server computers illustrated in training environment 300 maybe implemented on a single computer.

Further, flight simulator 320 may be a separate device from thecomputers running the servers in these examples. Flight simulator 320may include a full-size replica of the cockpit for an operator.

With reference now to FIG. 4, an illustration of training software isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. In thisillustrative example, training software 400 is an example of oneimplementation for training software 120 in FIG. 1. As illustrated,training software 400 runs on computer 402 during a training session. Inthe illustrative examples, training software 400 may be loaded ontocomputer 402 to run training exercises. Computer 402 may be implementedusing data processing system 200 in FIG. 2 and is an example of oneimplementation for computer system 118 in FIG. 1.

Training software 400 comprises number of processes 404. Number ofprocesses 404 may include number of sensor models 406. As illustrated,number of processes 404 includes data process 412, infrared targetingprocess 414, and data collection process 416. In these illustrativeexamples, number of processes 404 may process live sensor data 408 andsimulation data 410. Number of processes 404 receives simulation data410 from network interface 420.

Live sensor data 408 is received from sensor system 422. Sensor system422, in these illustrative examples, may include at least one of radarsystem 426, radar warning receiver 427, infrared targeting pod 428,global positioning system unit 430, and other suitable components.

In these illustrative examples, number of processes 404 also may receiveownship data 462 from controls 432 and navigation system 433. Asdepicted, controls 432 may comprise at least one of flight stick 434,switches 435, and other suitable controls that may be located within theaircraft. Navigation system 433 may include at least one of globalpositioning system unit 436, inertial navigation system 437, and othersuitable types of systems.

In these depicted examples, number of processes 404 combine live sensordata 408 and simulation data 410 for presentation on display system 438.Display system 438 may include, for example, number of video displaydevices 439 and number of audio devices 440. Display system 438 is thedisplay system used in the aircraft and does not require modificationsin the different illustrative embodiments.

Number of sensor models 406 provides models of the physical sensorslocated in sensor system 422. In these different illustrativeembodiments, number of sensor models 406 processes simulation data 410to generate simulation sensor data 447.

Number of sensor models 406 includes radar model 442 and radar warningreceiver model 444. A model, in these illustrative examples, is aprocess that is designed to simulate a live or physical object. Forexample, radar model 442 is designed to simulate the operation of radarsystem 426. Radar warning receiver model 444 is a process designed tosimulate the operation of radar warning receiver 427. Radar model 442and radar warning receiver model 444 generate output that is the same orsubstantially the same as the output generated by radar system 426 andradar warning receiver 427, respectively.

In this illustrative example, infrared targeting process 414 in numberof processes 404 receives live sensor data 408 from infrared targetingpod 428. Additionally, infrared targeting process 414 may receiveinformation about objects in simulation data 410. In this illustrativeexample, infrared targeting process 414 adds data to live sensor data408 based on information in simulation data 410. In this example, thedata generated by infrared targeting process 414 also is part ofsimulation sensor data 447 in these examples. For example, infraredtargeting process 414 may add symbols to live sensor data 408 frominfrared targeting pod 428 to simulate various objects, such asaircraft, missiles, ground radar, and other objects.

Data process 412 in number of processes 404 receives simulation sensordata 447 and live sensor data 408. In these illustrative examples, dataprocess 412 generates live object data 446 and simulation object data448. Live object data 446 is information about real or physical objectsdetected by sensor system 422. Simulation object data 448 also may begenerated by infrared targeting process 414 processing live sensor data408 to create simulation object data 448.

Simulation object data 448 is information generated about simulationobjects received in simulation sensor data 447. This information mayinclude, for example, without limitation, an identification of anobject, a graphical identifier to use with the object, and othersuitable information.

Also, in these different illustrative examples, simulation object data448 may include identifiers or flags to indicate that the particularobject is a simulation object and not a live or physical object. Thisinformation may be used to generate graphical indicators such that anoperator can determine which objects are live or simulated. In theseexamples, the graphical indicators may be presented on number of videodisplay devices 439 in display system 438. Live object data 446 andsimulation object data 448 form object database 450.

In these illustrative examples, data process 412 generates live objectdata 446 from live sensor data 408 received from sensor system 422. Forexample, objects detected by radar system 426 are identified andprocessed by data process 412. Each identified object forms an objectwithin live object data 446.

In these illustrative examples, simulation data 410 may includeidentification 456, position 458, and heading 460 for a simulationobject. Radar model 442 may use this information as input to generatesimulation sensor data 447. In a similar fashion, simulation data 410may be processed by data process 412 using radar warning receiver model444 to generate simulation sensor data 447 for the simulation object asbeing a friend or foe.

In these illustrative examples, data process 412 uses live object data446 and simulation object data 448 in object database 450 as a singlepresentation on display system 438. In other words, both live objectsand simulation objects are presented and interacted with by an operatorof the aircraft such that both live sensor data 408 and simulation data410 are presented together in an integrated presentation.

In these illustrative examples, live object data 446 and simulationobject data 448 may be presented on display system 438. This informationmay be presented on number of video display devices 439 to provide anoperator an indication of where different objects may be locatedrelative to the aircraft. Further, number of audio devices 440 also maybe used to present live object data 446 and simulation object data 448from object database 450. In some cases, audio warnings or messages maybe presented based on information in object database 450.

Data collection process 416 may receive ownship data 462 from controls432 and from navigation system 433. For example, data collection process416 may receive an indication of a firing of a weapon in response to anactivation of a control in controls 432. Additionally, data collectionprocess 416 receives position information from global positioning systemunit 436 and inertial navigation system 437.

This information is sent back as ownship data 462 to a remote locationthrough network interface 420. Ownship data 462 is used by simulationprograms and training devices, such as number of simulation programs 130and number of training devices 132 in FIG. 1. Ownship data 462 may beused to represent the aircraft as an object within the simulations runby number of simulation programs 130 and number of training devices 132in FIG. 1.

The illustration of training software 400 in FIG. 4 is not meant toimply physical or architectural limitations to the manner in whichdifferent illustrative embodiments may be implemented. Other componentsin addition to and/or in place of the ones illustrated may be used. Somecomponents may be unnecessary in some illustrative embodiments. Also,the blocks are presented to illustrate some functional components. Oneor more of these blocks may be combined and/or divided into differentblocks when implemented in different illustrative embodiments.

For example, in some illustrative embodiments, some processes in numberof processes 404 and number of sensor models 406 may run on a differentcomputer, other than computer 402 in the aircraft. In yet otherillustrative embodiments, number of sensor models 406 may be unnecessaryif simulation data 410 includes simulation object data 448 for use bynumber of processes 404. Simulation object data 448 may be sent as partof simulation data 410 if sufficient bandwidth is present for use bynetwork interface 420. In other words, the different models for thesensor system in the aircraft may be run in a remote location with thatsensor data being sent to computer 402 for processing and presentation.

Object database 450 may be transmitted to a remote location usingnetwork interface 420 during the training. In some illustrativeembodiments, object database 450 may be downloaded after the flight iscompleted. Object database 450 may be reviewed to evaluate the trainingthat was performed.

As another example, although the illustrative example shows radar model442 and radar warning receiver model 444, other models also may be usedin addition to or in place of the ones depicted. For example, thesemodels may include an Interrogator Friend or Foe model, a chaff andflair dispenser model, an electronic warfare jamming model, and/or othersuitable models.

With reference now to FIG. 5, an illustration of data flow in a trainingenvironment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.In this illustrative example, training environment 500 is an example ofone implementation of training environment 100 in FIG. 1. Further,training environment 500 may be implemented using training software 400in FIG. 4. The data flow illustrated in this example is for processingsimulation data and live data for aerial objects that may be encounteredby an aircraft.

As depicted, training environment 500 includes aircraft 501 and groundterminal 502. Ground terminal 502 has computer system 503 for sendingsimulation data 504 to aircraft 501. Simulation data 504 is sent using awireless communications link in this illustrative example. Simulationdata 504 is received by aircraft 501 using data link terminal 506. Datalink terminal 506 may take the form of an avionics device configured togenerate and receive different types of data in these examples.

Data at data link terminal 506 is sent to data link report manager 507running on computer system 505 in aircraft 501. Data link report manager507 identifies simulation data 504 received from data link terminal 506and sends simulation data 504 to data processes 508 for processing. Inthese illustrative examples, data link terminal 506 and data link reportmanager 507 form a network interface, such as network interface 420 inFIG. 4, between computer system 503 and computer system 505.

Simulation data 504 is sent from data link report manager 507 to datalink translator 509. Data link translator 509 is a process in datacollection process 416 in FIG. 4 in these illustrative examples. Datalink translator 509 separates the simulation data into arrays ofsimulation data. A portion of these arrays of simulation data is sentinto radar model 510, and a portion of these arrays of simulation datais sent into radar warning receiver model 512. The portion of the arraysof simulation data sent into radar model 510 may include information,such as, for example, simulation object information and/or othersuitable information. The portion of the arrays of simulation data sentinto radar warning receiver model 512 may include information, such as,for example, simulation information about radar emission sourcesexternal to aircraft 501.

Radar model 510 generates simulation sensor data. This simulation sensordata is sent to simulation radar unpacker 514. The simulation sensordata may have a format similar to or substantially the same as a formatfor radar system 518 in aircraft 501. Simulation radar unpacker 514changes the format of the simulation sensor data into a format forstorage in object database 522.

In this illustrative example, radar system 518 generates live radar data519. Live radar data 519 is sent to live radar unpacker 520 in dataprocesses 508. Live radar unpacker 520 changes the format of live radardata 519 into a format for storage in object database 522. As depicted,both simulation radar unpacker 514 and live radar unpacker 520 send thedata with the changed format to radar report manager 516.

Radar report manager 516 identifies simulation object data and liveobject data for storage in object database 522 and then stores this datain object database 522. Both the simulation object data and the liveobject data may have substantially the same format in these examples. Insome illustrative embodiments, the simulation object data may beassociated with an identifier to identify the data as simulation dataand not live data.

The data stored in object database 522 may be sent to controls anddisplay system 524. In other words, an operator may control and view thesimulation object data and live object data stored using controls anddisplay system 524.

In this depicted example, radar warning receiver model 512 generatessimulation sensor data that is sent to simulation radar warning receiverunpacker 530. Simulation radar warning receiver unpacker 530 changes theformat of the simulation sensor data and sends the data with the changedformat to controls and display system 524. The format of the data ischanged such that the data may be controlled and viewed using controlsand display system 524.

Controls and display system 524 may be implemented using controls 432and/or display system 438 in FIG. 4. Further, controls and displaysystem 524 may display the simulation object data and live object datausing display formats 532. Display formats 532 may include, for example,without limitation, heads-up display formats, heads-down displayformats, and/or other suitable types of formats.

In this illustrative example, an operator may send a request to requestarbitrator 526 using controls and display system 524. This request maybe, for example, a request to change a component, data, or some otherfeature of radar model 510. Request arbitrator 526 determines whetherthe request should be sent to radar model 510. Request arbitrator 526uses a set of rules and/or a set of priorities for operations performedby radar model 510 to determine whether the request should be sent toradar model 510. As one illustrative example, if a request has a lowerpriority than an operation being performed by radar model 510, therequest is not sent to radar model 510 until the completion of theoperation. If the request may be sent to radar model 510, requestarbitrator 526 sends the request to radar packer 528. Radar packer 528changes the format of the request into a format radar model 510 mayprocess.

Data processed using data processes 508 also is sent back to groundterminal 502 from aircraft 501. For example, weapons launch data 534 maybe generated using the data presented using controls and display system524. Weapons launch data 534 is sent to data packer 540. Data packer 540also receives navigation data 537 generated by navigation system 536.

Data packer 540 changes the format of the data into a format fortransmission to computer system 503. The data is sent to data linktranslator 509 along with simulation sensor data from radar model 510.This data is then sent to data link report manager 507 and then to datalink terminal 506. The data is transmitted from data link terminal 506to computer system 503 in ground terminal 502 using a wirelesscommunications link.

With reference now to FIG. 6, an illustration of data flow in a trainingenvironment is depicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.In this illustrative example, training environment 600 is an example ofone implementation of training environment 100 in FIG. 1. Further,training environment 600 may be implemented using training software 400in FIG. 4. The data flow illustrated in this example uses components andprocesses similar to the data flow illustrated in FIG. 5. However, inthis illustrative example, training environment 600 is for processingsimulation data and live data for ground-based objects that may beencountered by an aircraft.

As depicted, training environment 600 includes aircraft 601 and groundterminal 602. Ground terminal 602 has computer system 603 for sendingsimulation data 604 to aircraft 601. Simulation data 604 is sent using awireless communications link in this illustrative example. Simulationdata 604 is received by aircraft 601 using data link terminal 606. Dataat data link terminal 606 is sent to data link report manager 607running on computer system 605 in aircraft 601. Data link report manager607 identifies simulation data 604 received from data link terminal 606and sends simulation data 604 to data processes 608 for processing.

Simulation data 604 is sent from data link report manager 607 to datalink translator 609. Data link translator 609 separates simulation data604 into arrays of simulation data. A portion of these arrays ofsimulation data is sent into radar warning receiver model 610. Anotherportion of these arrays of simulation data is sent to object positionunpacker 612.

The portion of arrays of simulation data sent to object positionunpacker 612 contains position data for simulation objects. In thisillustrative example, these simulation objects are ground-based objects.Object position unpacker 612 changes the format of the arrays ofsimulation data such that the position data for the simulation objectsmay be controlled and viewed using controls and display system 624.

In this depicted example, radar warning receiver model 610 generatessimulation sensor data from the arrays of simulation data. Thesimulation sensor data is sent to simulation radar warning receiverunpacker 614. Simulation radar warning receiver unpacker 614 changes theformat of the simulation sensor data and sends the data with the changedformat to controls and display system 624. The format of the data ischanged such that the data may be controlled and viewed using controlsand display system 624.

In this illustrative example, an operator may use the position data forthe simulation objects presented in controls and display system 624 toselect a simulation object to be monitored using radar system 616. Theoperator may send a request to request arbitrator 626 based on theselected simulation object. This request may be to change radar system616 to map mode 618. Map mode 618 allows radar system 616 to monitor aparticular area based on the position data for the selected simulationobject. In other words, map mode 618 allows radar system 616 to monitoran area for a simulation object without identifying the simulationobject or the specific position of the simulation object.

Request arbitrator 626 determines whether this request should be sent toradar system 616. This determination may be based on a set of rulesand/or a set of priorities for operations performed by radar system 616.If the request is sent to radar system 616, request arbitrator 626 sendsthe request to radar packer 628. Radar packer 628 changes the format ofthe request to a format that may be processed by radar system 616. Inthis illustrative example, radar packer 628 changes the format of therequest to a command that may be executed by radar system 616.

In response to receiving the request with the changed format from radarpacker 628, radar system 616 changes to map mode 618 and sends liveradar data 619 to live radar unpacker 620. Live radar data 619 is a mapof a particular area identified using the position data for the selectedsimulation object. Live radar unpacker 620 changes the format of liveradar data 619 into a format for storage in object database 630. Asdepicted, live radar unpacker 620 sends the data with the changed formatto radar report manager 631.

Further, request arbitrator 626 also sends data included in the requestfrom the operator to radar report manager 631. This data may includeinformation identifying the selected simulation object and/or theposition data for the simulation object. Radar report manager 631identifies simulation object data and live object data for storage inobject database 630 and then stores this data in object database 630. Inthese illustrative examples, simulation object data and the live objectdata have substantially the same format.

The data stored in object database 630 is sent to controls and displaysystem 624. In other words, an operator may control and view thesimulation object data and live object data stored using controls anddisplay system 624.

Controls and display system 624 displays the simulation object data andlive object data using display formats 632. Display formats 632 mayinclude, for example, without limitation, heads-up display formats,heads-down display formats, and/or other suitable types of formats.

Data processed using data processes 608 also is sent back to groundterminal 602 from aircraft 601. For example, weapons launch data 634 maybe generated using the data presented using controls and display system624. Weapons launch data 634 is sent to data packer 640. Data packer 640also receives navigation data 637 generated by navigation system 636.Further, data packer 640 receives live radar data 619 from radar system616. Data packer 640 changes the format of all the data received into aformat for transmission to computer system 603. The data is sent to datalink translator 609. This data is then sent to data link report manager607 and then to data link terminal 606. The data is transmitted fromdata link terminal 606 to computer system 603 in ground terminal 602using a wireless communications link.

With reference now to FIG. 7, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for performing a training session is depicted in accordance withan illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated in FIG. 7 may beused to perform training session 106 in training environment 100 in FIG.1.

The process begins by preparing a mission for the training session(operation 700). In this operation, a mission may be defined to have anumber of different scenarios for the training session. These scenariosmay include, for example, without limitation, an air-to-air engagementscenario, an air-to-ground strike scenario, a joint-operation scenarioincluding other aircraft, and other suitable scenarios. With one or moreof the different illustrative embodiments, multiple scenarios may beperformed in a training session that may require more time, airspace,and equipment availability than possible to perform in a single trainingsession or flight.

In this operation, the definition of a training area, the aircraftarmament, sensor parameters, behavior, routes, and other information maybe set. The process then prepares each of the scenarios identified forthe mission (operation 702). This operation includes defining thevarious parameters and equipment to be used in each scenario in themission as planned in operation 700. The operation may includeidentifying both live objects, as well as simulation objects.

The process performs the mission (operation 704). In performing themission, the data for the different scenarios is loaded onto thecomputer system for the training environment. Operation 704 may beimplemented using training software, such as training software 400 inFIG. 4. The number of live aircraft in the mission may then take off toperform the mission with simulation data being sent to the number oflive aircraft. Further, during the flying of the mission, differentscenarios may be repeated and rerun until desired results are obtainedor until fuel becomes low.

Thereafter, mission debriefing is performed (operation 706). In thisoperation, information from the mission is presented for review andanalysis. For example, the database from the aircraft in the mission, aswell as simulation data generated by the computer system, may be viewed.For example, flight paths and events that occurred during the missionmay be viewed. Thereafter, a performance assessment is performed(operation 708), with the process terminating thereafter. An assessmentof the performance of the crew in the aircraft may be performed based onthe results from the mission.

With reference now to FIG. 8, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for training in an aircraft is depicted in accordance with anillustrative embodiment. The process in FIG. 8 may be implemented in atraining environment, such as training environment 300 in FIG. 3. Inparticular, this process may be implemented in a computer system, suchas computer system 118 in aircraft 104 in FIG. 1.

The process begins by receiving simulation data during a trainingsession (operation 800). In this illustrative example, the simulationdata is received by the training software running on the aircraft. Thecommunications system uses a wireless communications link to receive thesimulation data. The process then generates simulation sensor data fromthe simulation data (operation 802). In these illustrative examples,this process is performed in the aircraft. In other illustrativeembodiments, a portion of the training software may operate in anotherlocation with the simulation sensor data being transmitted to theaircraft.

The process receives live sensor data from a sensor system in theaircraft (operation 804). The process then presents the simulationsensor data with the live sensor data on a display system in theaircraft (operation 806), with the process terminating thereafter.

With reference now to FIG. 9, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for generating simulation sensor data received in an aircraft isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The processillustrated in FIG. 9 may be implemented in software, such as trainingsoftware 400 in FIG. 4. The simulation sensor data generated by theoperations in this flowchart may be an example of simulation sensor data447, which may be used to generate simulation object data 448 in FIG. 4.

The process begins by receiving simulation sensor data (operation 900).The process identifies a number of objects in the simulation sensor data(operation 902). The process then selects an unprocessed object from thenumber of objects identified for processing (operation 904).

Thereafter, the process generates simulation sensor data about theselected object identified in the simulation data (operation 906). Thisinformation may include, for example, without limitation, anidentification of the object, a graphical indicator to use for theobject, and other suitable information. These objects may be, forexample, without limitation, aircraft, vehicles, missile sites, ships,missiles in flight, and other suitable objects.

Operation 902 may be performed using a model for the sensor system. Themodel of the sensor system may include models of different sensors inthe sensor system. Operation 906 generates simulation sensor data in thesame fashion that an actual sensor system would generate sensor data inan aircraft.

The sensor data is the same format as sensor data generated by physicalsensor systems in the aircraft. A determination is then made as towhether the simulation data includes information about anotherunprocessed object (operation 908). If the simulation data includesinformation about another unprocessed object, the unprocessed object isselected, and the process returns to operation 902. Otherwise, theprocess terminates. The simulation sensor data may then be processed bythe computer system in the aircraft in the same manner as with livesensor data generated by sensors for the aircraft.

With reference now to FIG. 10, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for generating information about objects detected by sensors isdepicted in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. The processillustrated in FIG. 10 may be implemented in software, such as trainingsoftware 400 in FIG. 4. This process may be used to generate informationabout both live objects and simulation objects in these illustrativeexamples. The same process may be used, because the simulation sensordata is in the same format and contains the same type of information asthe live sensor data generated by physical sensors in the aircraft. Theoperations illustrated in FIG. 10 may be used to generate data, such aslive object data 446 and simulation object data 448 in FIG. 4.

The process begins by receiving sensor data from a sensor (operation1000). In operation 1000, the sensor data may be either live sensor dataor simulation sensor data in these examples. The process then identifiesobjects in the sensor data (operation 1002). An object identified in thesensor data is selected for processing (operation 1004). Informationabout the object is generated based on the sensor data (operation 1006).This information may include, for example, an identification of theobject, a graphical indicator to use for the object, and other suitableinformation. Thereafter, the information is placed into a database ofobjects (operation 1008). Next, a determination is made as to whetheradditional unprocessed objects are present in the sensor data (operation1010). If additional objects are present, the process returns tooperation 1004. Otherwise, the process terminates.

With respect to simulation sensor data that may be received, theinformation about the object also may include an indication that theobject is a simulation object rather than a live object. In someillustrative embodiments, parallel processes may run to process livesensor data and simulation sensor data. One process may process all livesensor data, while the other process processes only simulation sensordata. As a result, all of the objects identified by the processprocessing simulation sensor data are associated with objects that aresimulation objects rather than live objects. The information for eachtype of object may be stored in separate locations such that anidentification of a live object versus a simulation object may be made.

With reference now to FIG. 11, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for presenting object information is depicted in accordance withan illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated in FIG. 11 may beused to process live object data and simulation object data generated bythe process in FIG. 8.

The process begins by identifying objects that have been detected by anaircraft (operation 1100). These objects include ones detected by thesensors in the aircraft and those sent in simulation information to theaircraft. The identification may be made using an object database, suchas object database 450 in FIG. 4.

Thereafter, the process selects an unprocessed object from the detectedobjects for processing (operation 1102). The process retrievesinformation about the object from the object database (operation 1104).This information may include, for example, without limitation, anidentification of the object, a location of the object, and othersuitable information. The process then presents the object on thedisplay system (operation 1106). For example, a particular type ofgraphical indicator may be used, depending on the identification of theobject type. For example, one type of graphical indicator may be usedfor friendly aircraft, while another type of graphical indicator may beused for enemy aircraft.

The display of graphical indicators may be presented on display system438 using number of video display devices 439 in FIG. 4. Additionally,in some cases, the operator or operators in the aircraft may receiveaudio cues through devices, such as number of audio devices 440 indisplay system 438. In the different illustrative embodiments, theseaudio cues also may be generated based on the reception of simulationdata 410.

Next, the process determines whether additional unprocessed objects arepresent (operation 1108). If additional unprocessed objects are present,the process returns to operation 1102. Otherwise, the processterminates.

In selecting an object for processing in the process in FIG. 11, allobjects in the object database are identified and processed. The objectsinclude those for objects actually detected by the aircraft and thosesent in the simulation information. In this manner, the presentation ofobjects, both live and simulated, are presented on the display in thesame manner in which live objects are normally presented on the display.Of course, the presentation of the display may include a differentindicator for simulation objects as compared to live objects, dependingon the particular implementation.

With reference now to FIG. 12, an illustration of a flowchart of aprocess for sending data during a training session is depicted inaccordance with an illustrative embodiment. The process illustrated inFIG. 12 may be implemented in a computer system, such as computer system118 in aircraft 104 in FIG. 1.

The process begins by obtaining ownship information about the aircraft(operation 1200). This information may be obtained from a system, suchas a global positioning system unit and/or an inertial navigation unit.This ownship information may include, for example, a longitude, alatitude, an elevation, an attitude, an altitude, a velocity, and othersuitable information.

The ownship information also may include information about whether acontrol for launching a weapon has been activated. The process thensends the collected information to a remote location from the aircraftfor processing (operation 1202), with the process terminatingthereafter.

The flowcharts and block diagrams in the different depicted embodimentsillustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of somepossible implementations of apparatus and methods in differentillustrative embodiments. In this regard, each block in the flowchartsor block diagrams may represent a module, segment, function, and/or aportion of an operation or step.

In some alternative implementations, the function or functions noted inthe block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example,in some cases, two blocks shown in succession may be executedsubstantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed inthe reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. Also,other blocks may be added in addition to the illustrated blocks in aflowchart or block diagram.

Thus, the different illustrative embodiments provide a method andapparatus for training with aircraft. In one illustrative embodiment, anapparatus comprises an aircraft. The apparatus also comprises acommunications system, a display system, a sensor system, and a computersystem, all of which are associated with the aircraft. Thecommunications system is configured to exchange data with a number ofremote locations using a wireless communications link. The computersystem is configured to run a number of processes to receive simulationdata received through the communications system over the wirelesscommunications link, receive live data from the sensor system associatedwith the aircraft, and present the simulation data and the live data onthe display system.

With one or more of the different illustrative embodiments, trainingusing live aircraft may be reduced in expense and time. For example,with one or more of the different illustrative embodiments, multiplescenarios may be performed during a training session. For example, afirst scenario may involve locating a ground target, and a secondscenario may involve an air-to-air combat mission. These two scenariosmay be performed during one training session more easily than with alllive objects. For example, the scheduling and availability of aircraftand ground systems is less of a problem, because simulation objects maybe used for one or more of the objects. Additionally, the amount of fueland maintenance needed may be reduced because of the use of simulationobjects in place of live objects.

The different illustrative embodiments can take the form of an entirelyhardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment, or an embodimentcontaining both hardware and software elements. Some embodiments areimplemented in software, which includes, but is not limited to, forms,such as, for example, firmware, resident software, and microcode.

Furthermore, the different embodiments can take the form of a computerprogram product accessible from a computer-usable or computer-readablemedium providing program code for use by or in connection with acomputer or any device or system that executes instructions. For thepurposes of this disclosure, a computer-usable or computer-readablemedium can generally be any tangible apparatus that can contain, store,communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or inconnection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

The computer-usable or computer-readable medium can be, for example,without limitation, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic,infrared, or semiconductor system, or a propagation medium. Non-limitingexamples of a computer-readable medium include a semiconductor or solidstate memory, magnetic tape, a removable computer diskette, a randomaccess memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disk,and an optical disk. Optical disks may include compact disk-read onlymemory (CD-ROM), compact disk-read/write (CD-R/W), and DVD.

Further, a computer-usable or computer-readable medium may contain orstore a computer-readable or usable program code such that when thecomputer-readable or usable program code is executed on a computer, theexecution of this computer-readable or usable program code causes thecomputer to transmit another computer-readable or usable program codeover a communications link. This communications link may use a mediumthat is, for example, without limitation, physical or wireless.

A data processing system suitable for storing and/or executingcomputer-readable or computer-usable program code will include one ormore processors coupled directly or indirectly to memory elementsthrough a communications fabric, such as a system bus. The memoryelements may include local memory employed during actual execution ofthe program code, bulk storage, and cache memories, which providetemporary storage of at least some computer-readable or computer-usableprogram code to reduce the number of times code may be retrieved frombulk storage during execution of the code.

Input/output or I/O devices can be coupled to the system either directlyor through intervening I/O controllers. These devices may include, forexample, without limitation, keyboards, touch screen displays, andpointing devices. Different communications adapters may also be coupledto the system to enable the data processing system to become coupled toother data processing systems or remote printers or storage devicesthrough intervening private or public networks. Non-limiting examplesare modems and network adapters and are just a few of the currentlyavailable types of communications adapters.

The description of the different illustrative embodiments has beenpresented for purposes of illustration and description, and it is notintended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the formdisclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to thoseof ordinary skill in the art. Further, different illustrativeembodiments may provide different advantages as compared to otherillustrative embodiments. The embodiment or embodiments selected arechosen and described in order to best explain the principles of theembodiments, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinaryskill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodimentswith various modifications as are suited to the particular usecontemplated.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus comprising: an aircraft; a networkinterface associated with the aircraft, wherein the network interface isconfigured to exchange data using a wireless communications link; adisplay system associated with the aircraft; a sensor system associatedwith the aircraft configured to obtain live sensor data for theaircraft, at least a portion of the live sensor data including dataobtained from an infrared targeting pod positioned external to theaircraft; a first computer system associated with the aircraft, thefirst computer system in communication with the network interface; thenetwork interface in communication with a second computer system at alocation remote from the aircraft, the second computer system configuredto: perform a simulation of a number of objects and generate simulationdata from the simulation and send the simulation data to the networkinterface, such that the simulation data comprises: constructive datathat comprises data generated by a software program to simulate anobject; and virtual data that comprises data generated through atraining device that receives a manual input; the first computer systembeing configured to run a number of processes the number of processescomprising a model of a sensor in the sensor system receive thesimulation data generated at the second computer system through thenetwork interface over the wireless communications link; separate thesimulation data into arrays of simulation data; responsive to receivingthe simulation data, transformed to a format that matches the livesensor data, and generate simulation sensor data using the simulationdata; receive live sensor data from the sensor system associated withthe aircraft; and present the simulation sensor data with the livesensor data on the display system.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinin presenting the simulation sensor data and the live sensor data on thedisplay system, the first computer system is configured to process thesimulation sensor data and the live sensor data on the display system toform processed sensor data and present the processed sensor data on thedisplay system simultaneously.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein inprocessing the simulation sensor data and the live sensor data, thefirst computer system is configured to create information about a numberof objects in the simulation sensor data and the live sensor data andpresent the information about the number of objects.
 4. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the model of the sensor further includes at least onemodel that is selected from a group comprising an infrared sensor model,an Interrogator Friend or Foe model, a chaff and flair dispenser model,and an electronic warfare jamming model.
 5. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the first computer system is configured to run the number ofprocesses to receive the simulation data received through the networkinterface; generate the simulation sensor data using the simulationdata; receive the live sensor data from the sensor system associatedwith the aircraft; and present the simulation sensor data with the livesensor data on the display system while the aircraft is in flight. 6.The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising: a weapons server configuredto generate results for simulation weapons fired by the aircraft.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 6, wherein the weapons server runs on the secondcomputer system at a ground location.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1further comprising: a number of flight simulators configured to generatethe simulation data and send the simulation data to the networkinterface.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second computersystem is located at a ground terminal.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the first computer system is further configured to run thenumber of processes, after separating the simulation data into arrays ofsimulation data.
 11. An apparatus comprising: an aircraft having asensor system; a training software; and a computer system, a firstportion of the computer system is in a location remote to the aircraftand a portion of the training software runs on the first portion of thecomputer system, a second portion of the computer system on theaircraft, such that a number of processes on the second portion of thecomputer system comprise a model of a sensor in the sensor system, thecomputer system being configured to run the training software such thatthe training software: receives simulation data from the first portionof the computer system, such that the simulation data comprises:constructive data that comprises data generated by a software program tosimulate an object; and virtual data that comprises data generatedthrough a training device that receives a manual input; separates thesimulation data into arrays of simulation data; creates, responsive toreceiving the simulation data, simulation sensor data from thesimulation data using the model of the sensor; receive live sensor datafrom the sensor system associated with the aircraft, such that at leasta portion of the live sensor data comprises data obtained from aninfrared targeting pod positioned external to the aircraft; and presentthe simulation sensor data, transformed to a format matching the livesensor data, and the live sensor data on a display system.
 12. Theapparatus of claim 11 further comprising: the aircraft with a networkinterface, the display system, and the sensor system.
 13. The apparatusof claim 11, wherein the training software comprises the model of thesensor.
 14. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the computer system isconfigured to run the training software to generate ownship data for theaircraft and send the ownship data to a remote computer system.
 15. Amethod for training in an aircraft, the method comprising: generatingsimulation data from a number of simulators in a computer system locatedremote from the aircraft, such that the simulation data comprises:constructive data that comprises data generated by a software program tosimulate an object; and virtual data that comprises data generatedthrough a training device that receives a manual input; receiving thesimulation data from a network interface in the aircraft during atraining session, the network interface using a wireless communicationslink to receive the simulation data; separating the simulation data in acomputer system in the aircraft into arrays of simulation data;receiving live sensor data from a sensor system in the aircraft, atleast a portion of the live sensor data including data obtained from aninfrared targeting pod positioned external to the aircraft; responsiveto receiving the simulation data, generating simulation sensor datausing the simulation data, using a model of the sensor, the simulationsensor data transformed to a format matching the live sensor data; andpresenting the simulation sensor data with the live sensor data on adisplay system in the aircraft.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein thesimulation data comprises at least one of constructive data and virtualdata.
 17. The method of claim 15 further comprising: generating ownshipdata for the aircraft; and sending the ownship data to a remote computersystem using the network interface.